Tail fibers at the base are coarse and a bit hollow like belly hair so tend to flair after you yank down on it. Try to use light turns as you get close to base as this decreases degree of flair. As the hair goes to the up it losses that characteristic and becomes more subtle for winging. Sometimes, like in a base bug tail or support under flatwing saddle that is desired effect but in most applications, the upper tail is better. Applications also dictate hair length. I always buy tails in stores so I can pick out ones I want. Always cut close to hide and get rid of fluff and shorts. I hardly ever stack hair just tap it on my palm to get base straight(but I'm lazy).Rule of thumb on deer hair.... cut what u need and use half of it.